Facing Colorectal Cancer: Candace Tucker’s Journey and Insights

Candace Tucker found herself reflecting on cancer frequently. Her family history included her grandfather’s prostate cancer, her grandmother’s breast cancer, and her aunt’s pancreatic cancer. Her work at an oncology practice in Texas meant she was in constant contact with cancer patients and doctors. Despite this, when she noticed odd bowel movements and blood in her stool in September 2025, she attributed it to a new fiber-rich diet and overlooked it due to her busy life.

After a few months of ongoing mild discomfort and occasional blood, Tucker sensed something was wrong. A colonoscopy soon followed. Though the doctor warned it was early to make conclusions, results confirmed Stage II rectal cancer a week later. “I was terrified,” Tucker, 41, recounted. She expressed the difficulty of staying strong for her family while facing her diagnosis.

Treatment and Challenges

Tucker opted to start treatment with Dr. Bradley Scott Colton, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Texas Oncology. He analyzed her tumor’s DNA, revealing the need for chemotherapy, surgery, and potentially radiation. Tucker described the prospect of intense treatment as overwhelming. At the time of her CBS News interview, she was a third into her chemotherapy, undergoing it bi-weekly. Dr. Colton noted the goal was aggressive treatment; Tucker’s favorable response marked her as an exemplary patient.

Tucker commented that chemotherapy was “not as bad” as anticipated. Her focus remained on maintaining normalcy for her grandson, making a point to attend his activities despite fatigue.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Dr. Colton emphasized that symptoms of colorectal cancer often go unnoticed, particularly in younger patients. Persistent, unexplained bowel changes warrant prompt medical attention. “If symptoms last more than a week or so, see a GI doctor,” he advised, noting it might not be cancer but another treatable condition. Dr. Megan Turley stressed any blood in the stool should not be ignored, even if it’s not always cancer. Other signs include unexplained weight loss, lower abdominal pain, and changes in stool consistency or color.

Dr. Arif Kamal from the American Cancer Society highlighted a troubling rise in colorectal cancer among those aged 20-49, now the leading cancer-related death cause in people under 50. The reasons remain unclear; however, diet, lifestyle, family history, and obesity all contribute.

Addressing Stigma

Tucker hopes sharing her story will combat stigma surrounding colorectal cancer. Her aunt only revealed a family history of this cancer after Tucker’s diagnosis. Tucker noted the hesitation in discussing “dirty” cancers and believed openness is key. “Maybe I would have been more cautious of symptoms if I’d known,” she reflected.

Tucker has been vocal about her journey and believes celebrity cases increase awareness. She looks forward to completing her treatment and aspires for a cancer-free future. “I’m excited to get all this done and to leave it in the past,” Tucker expressed, acknowledging the thought will linger but eager to move forward.